I don’t really do detailed “Tutorials” but after doing the steering rack on my T5 I thought I’d write up a few pointers!
It looks like a fairly daunting job that requires the front subframe to be removed but in reality it can be done without too much heartbreak if you can support the van safely and don’t mind working on your back.
The rack its self is held in with 4 bolts (16mm nut + bolt) but the rear engine mount straddles the rack and will need removing first (1x 16mm bolt and 4 x M8 spline/13mm bolts).
While both the inner track rod ends can remain on the rack the outer passenger track rod end will need to be removed to give enough clearance.
Other than that the following needs removing/disconnecting:
2x Hydraulic lines (17mm spanner)
2x 10mm bolts holding the solid hydraulic lines to the upper side of the rack on the passenger side.
Input shaft from steering box (16mm socket)
You can then withdraw the steering rack but tilting it forward and rotating it as it comes out.
Sourcing a replacement
A genuine VW rack is around the £700 mark and there are plenty of after market options for sub £300 but I decided to go with a refurbished genuine rack which I sourced from Steer-Tec (previously traded as Power Steering Solution I believe). At the time of writing the refurbished rack cost me £320 including a refundable £100 surcharge.
Hi Dave,
I am looking to do the same job on my T5.1. Thanks for sharing this video. It has actually given me the confidence to tackle it myself. Do you have any tips on how to fit it back in? Inserting and rotating in a certain way?
What was the reason or symptoms of needing the change? I have an advisory for movement in the rack and now feel a sway in driving. Think its time to change it but garages don’t want to do it all saying you must drop the subframe and that they do not want to take it on.
Thanks again
Nick
Hi Nick, if its just play check its not just the inner rod ends which are pretty simple to replace compared to doing the entire rack.
Thanks for replying. I have started the job and going through checking I can get everything undone easily (2010 van) everything slackened off apart from the top bolt on the engine mount. 16mm bolt on the top but how does it undo?
Thanks in advance
Nick
It’s just a regular bolt (anti-clockwise to undo it) but if you’re looking up from underneath it will “look” like you’re turning it clock wise.. They are VERY tight so you’ll have to put your big boy pants on 😀
Job completed. Easy really and thanks saved me about £1000 at the garage! Can I buy you a coffee?
Fantastic news! Just glad I could help someone else 🙂